Fifth Ave Perio

Improving Smiles

Dental Bridge vs. Dental Implant

Written by: Dr. Clifford Melnick, DMD

The Difference between Dental Bridges and Implants

Both dental bridges and dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. Both processes will improve function by increasing the biting surfaces used in mastication. For anterior bridges and implants, esthetic improvements to the look of the smile are also realized. A dental implant is a replacement tooth root that is implanted into the jawbone for maximum support. The titanium implant forms a bond with the bone over time, which is even stronger than the original bond between the tooth and the jawbone. This bond is called Osseointegration. After the implant has healed and secured into the jawbone, an abutment tooth is added to complete the procedure. Dental implants allow a patient to eat, smile, and speak with confidence. A fixed dental bridge is a non-removable prosthesis that is attached to a patient’s remaining natural teeth. The false tooth or teeth bridge a gap between the natural teeth. This process involves cutting down the circumference of the supporting teeth with dental drills. Then the bridge is cemented in place over the cut tooth structure. With a bridge, the patient will need to use floss threaders to clean under the gap because the teeth are connected. With implant supported crowns, they mimic the natural teeth more because you can floss between the crowns as they are not connected like a bridge. Most patients prefer dental implants vs dental bridges to replace a missing tooth because they don’t want their teeth cut down for the bridge. With an implant, the adjacent teeth are left intact and the implant with overlying crown is placed on top to close the gap. This reduces the damage to surrounding teeth and is more convenient for general oral hygiene. In addition, the final result is more natural and mimics the look and feel of the surrounding teeth more than a bridge does.

Learn More about Dr. Clifford Melnick

If you would like to learn more information about Dr. Clifford Melnick and patient services and procedures offered at our clinic, please contact our team today at 212-355-1266. We will answer all of your questions regarding dental bridges and dental implants, and help schedule you for a consultation with Dr. Clifford Melnick. During your consultation, Dr. Clifford Melnick will review your oral history and determine if a dental bridge or dental implants may be best suited to your individual needs. No matter what procedure or treatment you may require, you can rest assured that you are working with an expert periodontist who cares about your oral and overall health. Find out more about the Melnick difference today.